Ohio State coach Urban Meyer insisted Friday he followed proper protocols in reporting domestic violence allegations against an assistant coach in 2015, passionately defending himself in his first extensive comments since he was put on paid leave amid a university investigation.

Meyer posted a statement addressed to Buckeyes fans on Twitter not long after his team opened practice for the upcoming season without their coach. Meyer was put on leave Wednesday.

Shortly after Meyer’s statement posted, Zach Smith, the fired assistant coach accused of assaulting his wife, told Columbus radio station 105.7 The Zone that Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith spoke with him in 2015 about the allegations made by Courtney Smith that fall. A police report was made about the incident, but no charges were filed. Zach Smith was fired last week by Meyer.

What Meyer knew about the allegations and what he did about them has ballooned into a crisis for one of the most storied programs in college football. It also comes as the school is reeling from a sexual abuse scandal involving a now-dead sports doctor, Richard Strauss.

The Buckeyes open the season at home Sept. 1 against Oregon State. Co-offensive coordinator Ryan Day is acting head coach and there is no timeline for the inquiry to conclude.

“Over the past several days I have been portrayed as being indifferent to domestic violence and as someone who did not take appropriate action when warranted,” Meyer said.

“Here is the truth: While at the University of Florida and now at the Ohio State University I have always followed proper reporting protocols and procedures when I have learned of an incident involving a student-athlete, coach or member of our staff by elevating the issues to the proper channels. And I did so regarding the Zach Smith incident in 2015. I take that responsibility very seriously and any suggestion to the contrary is simply false.”

Meyer said he will fully cooperate with investigators. Ohio State did not respond Friday to a request seeking comment.